How long do swollen gums take to heal?

Gum swelling from plaque often eases in one to two weeks of careful brushing, flossing and rinsing. If it does not, see a dentist for cleaning.

Is salt water good for swollen gums?

Yes, a warm salt rinse is a simple traditional way to keep gums clean and soothe tenderness. It supports, but does not replace, brushing and flossing.

Can I use turmeric on swollen gums every day?

A small amount once a day for a week or two is commonly used. Stop if it stings or irritates.

Oral care10 min

Home remedies for swollen gums: turmeric-salt paste, guava leaf rinse and gentle flossing

Red, puffy gums that feel tender when you brush are usually reacting to plaque at the gum line. These home remedies for swollen gums use a warm salt rinse, a pinch of turmeric and a guava leaf gargle alongside careful cleaning, which is what actually lets gums settle.

Why gums swell

Most gum swelling is gingivitis: plaque bacteria irritate the gum edge, which swells and may bleed. Food stuck between teeth, a new wisdom tooth, hormonal changes in pregnancy and some medicines can also make gums puffy.

In Ayurveda, bitter and astringent herbs such as neem, turmeric, guava and babool leaves are traditionally used to tone the gums and keep them clean.

Ingredients

1 cup warm water with ½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon turmeric powder and a few drops of mustard or sesame oil
5–6 tender guava leaves (or neem leaves)
Dental floss or an interdental brush

How to prepare

Mix turmeric with a few drops of oil into a thick paste.
Boil the washed guava leaves in 2 cups of water for 5 minutes, then cool to lukewarm and strain.

How to use

Rinse with warm salt water after meals, two or three times a day.
Once daily, rub a little turmeric paste on the gums with a clean finger, leave for 2 minutes and rinse.
Gargle with the guava leaf water once a day and floss gently every night.

Helpful habits

Keep brushing the sore area softly; skipping it lets more plaque build up.
Replace your toothbrush every three months or when bristles splay.
Eat vitamin C foods such as amla, guava and oranges regularly.

Precautions

See a dentist quickly for gum swelling with pus, fever, a swollen face or jaw, or a loose tooth.
Pregnant women often get puffy gums; mention it at your antenatal visit and dental check-up.
Turmeric can stain; rinse well and do not use it on open wounds.

Frequently asked questions

How long do swollen gums take to heal?: Gum swelling from plaque often eases in one to two weeks of careful brushing, flossing and rinsing. If it does not, see a dentist for cleaning.
Is salt water good for swollen gums?: Yes, a warm salt rinse is a simple traditional way to keep gums clean and soothe tenderness. It supports, but does not replace, brushing and flossing.
Can I use turmeric on swollen gums every day?: A small amount once a day for a week or two is commonly used. Stop if it stings or irritates.